Now that we’ve got both the Google Nexus 7 and the Apple iPad Mini, we’ve been trying both tablets for a couple of weeks to see which one makes for a better portable tablet.

Both tablets are among the most popular devices in the 7-inch tablet market. Apple has apparently conceded that the 10-inch tablet category is not longer a leader and needs to complement it with a smaller one.

The display size of the Nexus 7 is at 7 inches flat (diagonally) while the iPad Mini has 0.9 inches more. However, because the aspect ratio of the iPad Mini is at 4:3 and not 16:9 like the Nexus 7, the total screen real estate is much bigger on the iPad Mini.

The resolution on the iPad Mini is 1024×768 pixels, giving it a pixel density of 164ppi. The Nexus 7, on the other hand, has a slightly higher resolution os 1280×800 pixels. Those extra pixels and the small display size gives the Nexus 7 a much better pixel density at 216ppi.

While the picture quality in the Nexus 7 could be a bit washed out at times, it is sharper and more crisp, it is less reflective while the picture quality on the iPad Mini can still be considered good, has more than enough brightness but will less sharpness, clarity and resolution.

Once you’ve trained your eyes on a Retina Display of the iPad 3, the iPad Mini will definitely show its flaws in the display resolution department.

The back side of the iPad Mini has a smooth but matte finish. It looks very elegant but industrial at the same time, has a solid cold feel to it. The back side of the Nexus 7 is rather unique, has that pimpled spots and a bit of tapered edges that provides more grip when held with one hand.

The iPad Mini is is way thinner though and looks much sexier than the Nexus 7. However, because of the width of the Mini, we found it really hard to grasp with one hand while we found it much comfortable to do on the Nexus 7.

The iPad Mini feels more fragile though because of we think the metallic construction is prone to scratches, just like the iPhone 5. We never had the same worry with the Nexus 7 although the plastic body doesn’t really attract some sympathy either.

The Nexus 7 has its advantages while the iPad Mini still has it charm. We don’t deny that the solid Apple brand and the sheer attractiveness of the Mini is enough to make it a hot item but the Nexus 7 can still hold its own, winning several points over the iPad Mini.

Then, there’s also the question of pricing. The Nexus 7 is already officially available at Php13,995 for the 32GB model. The same 32GB model of the iPad Mini still sells for about Php23,000 in the grey market. That’s still a huge price difference there.